Different Types of Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT)
There are two main types of stem cell transplant:
Autologous transplant: Your own stem cells are collected, stored, and later given back to you after you receive high-dose chemotherapy.
Allogeneic transplant: You receive stem cells from a donor. The donor may be:
A family member (such as a sibling or parent)
An unrelated volunteer donor
Umbilical cord blood that was donated after a baby’s birth
Common Myths
“Am I getting a new bone?”
No. A stem cell transplant does not replace your bones. Your blood cells live in your bone marrow which is inside your bones. In a stem cell transplant, you will receive healthy stem cells that can grow into healthy new blood cells.
“Is this a surgery?”
No. A stem cell transplant is not surgery. The stem cells are given through a central line (intravenous line), similar like a blood transfusion.
“Is this like an organ transplant?”
No. You are not receiving an organ like a kidney or heart. You are receiving stem cells, which make new blood cells and help rebuild your immune system.
“Am I getting new blood?”
Not exactly. The transplant gives you new stem cells that will start making red blood cells over time.
Additional Resources
Disclaimer: This Journey Map is for educational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Every patient’s situation is unique, and care decisions should always be made in consultation with your clinical team.
We extend our appreciation to Sanofi and Alexion for their generous partnership and active participation in our community. Their support helped bring patients, caregivers, clinicians, and industry partners together to co-create this Journey Map and improve the transplant experience.
Our Journey Map was created for Patients and Caregivers by Patients and Caregivers. Please share any corrections or additions!